Premier Mao Chi-kuo today credited the increase in discoveries of food safety problems to central and local government inspectors working under the new food safety regulatory system, as well as to watchful citizens reporting suspicious activities.
"Regardless of whether the operation was conducted by central or local agencies—or if it was a routine food safety case—all agencies should strengthen their communications, share information, establish standard operating procedures, and inform the public of their findings," Mao said. "By reviewing cases carefully and setting up standardized improvement measures, we can help promote self-discipline in the food industry."
Under the amended Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation, food companies should take the initiative to put stricter controls over the ingredients used in their products, said the Executive Yuan's Office of Food Safety. The responsibility for food sanitation and safety falls upon the whole supply chain, from upstream manufacturers to midstream distributors to downstream retailers.
Food businesses can also protect themselves from legal liabilities by consistently demanding from their suppliers quality ingredients, semi-finished products and finished products that meet food safety codes. Businesses must not shun their obligations to the consumer by claiming to be a victim in the process, the office said.
The premier instructed agencies to carry out their work in line with the principles outlined in the amended food safety act. Central agencies should also work closer with local health departments and adopt a three-tier quality control system that covers source management, distribution management, and self-management by businesses.
Some of the cases that surfaced in recent days were reported by private citizens, Premier Mao pointed out. This is an indication of how much people abhor harmful products and dishonest companies, and a part of the growing pains of cleaning up the entire system. Only with the cooperation of government and food businesses can the industry grow in a healthier direction.
To demonstrate the government's resolve in fighting food safety crimes, the Office of Food Safety has established an early reporting mechanism, created the Food Safety Inspection and Crackdown Task Force, and launched a nationwide clean-up operation, the Executive Yuan said.
Authorities will continue their inspections and root out makers of harmful food and drinks. Businesses should not consider themselves above the law because the government will staunchly defend the public's right to consume safe food. The Executive Yuan hopes more citizens and businesses will join hands with the government in creating a healthier food safety environment for Taiwan.